Root not sledging target - Morgan

Eoin Morgan does not think Joe Root will be the obvious target for Australia's sledgers during this summer's Ashes.

Root has been in the spotlight ahead of his first Ashes Test on Wednesday , most notably after he was punched by Australian counterpart David Warner in a Birmingham bar last month. That would appear to make Root a prime target for any war of words. However, Morgan believes the Australians will be more preoccupied with his opening partner and England skipper Alistair Cook.

"The Aussies have always looked to target your best player. Not so much the new guys," Morgan told Sky Sports News.

"Joe is a pretty confident and relaxed guy. I don't believe the guys will have to give him any direction. He'll just go out and play the way he does."

Morgan was part of the touring team that ended England's Ashes drought Down Under last time out and believes the favourites' tag they take into this series will aid them.

"Being favourites gives the guys a lot of confidence," he said.

"They handle pressure really well and will be quite relaxed about it."

Morgan did warn, however, that Australia could be galvanised by their late change of coach.

Darren Lehmann was given just 16 days to prepare for the opener at Trent Bridge following the shock sacking of Mickey Arthur, but Morgan thinks that could inspire a response from the tourists.

"I think it can be dangerous," he said. "When such an important decision is made on the cusp of a series it can take a lot of pressure off the players. England will be aware of that and know that they will have to play really well."